10 Feb 2022 | 05:46 PM UTC
Canada, US: Protesters likely to continue blocking several border crossings through mid-February /update 3
Protesters likely to block several border crossings between US and Canada through mid-February. Traffic disruptions ongoing.
Event
Protesting truck drivers in Canada are likely to continue blocking at least three border crossings between the US and Canada through mid-February. Demonstrators are demanding the end of COVID-19 restrictions and vaccine requirements in Canada.
As of Feb. 10, dozens of vehicles in Windsor, Ontario Province, continue to block traffic along Huron Church Road, the main road leading to the Ambassador Bridge which is connected to Detroit, Michigan, US. Authorities have said that some vehicles arriving from Wyandotte Street have been able to cross the bridge; however, traffic from the US to Canada has remained blocked. Non-commercial traffic from the US to Canada may continue through the nearby Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, while commercial traffic is being diverted to Blue Water Bridge, which connects Port Huron, Michigan with Point Edward, Ontario; however, traffic congestion has been reported in the area.
While authorities have worked to reduce and end the disruptions, the protests are likely to continue Feb. 10-12.
The Coutts border crossing point in Alberta, Canada, also remains blocked. Protesters are blocking both north and southbound lanes on Highway 4. Authorities attempted to remove the demonstrators late Feb. 9, but were unable to fully reopen the road; however, one lane is open to traffic.
Additionally, a new protest has emerged along Lord Selkirk Highway at the Emerson border crossing point, in Manitoba. The road was blocked early Feb. 10, halting traffic between Emerson and Pembina, North Dakota.
Heightened security is almost certain near protest sites. Protests near additional border crossings may occur in the coming days. Disruptions are likely to persist even after demonstrations conclude as officials work to clear the backlog of vehicles. Police may seek to forcibly remove the demonstrators if protesters engage in violence. Supply chain disruptions and production stoppages are possible due to the protest actions.
Advice
Consider alternative routes. Reconfirm the status of roads and border crossings before departure. Plan for delays to ground travel, including the movement of freight. Avoid demonstrations as a standard precaution. Do not pass through protester roadblocks until police have cleared them.
